Eudistoma diaphanes is a species of tunicate, a marine invertebrate belonging to the class Ascidiacea. This particular species is a solitary ascidian, meaning it lives individually rather than in colonies. It is commonly found in coastal waters around the world, particularly in warmer regions.
Description & Characteristics
Eudistoma diaphanes has a distinctive appearance. Its body is typically translucent, giving it a glassy or almost gelatinous look. The tunic, the outer covering of the body, is thin and delicate. The body is elongated and cylindrical, with a distinct siphon at each end. The oral siphon, located at the anterior end, is used for feeding, while the atrial siphon, located at the posterior end, is used for waste removal and water expulsion. The maximum size of Eudistoma diaphanes is typically around 2-3 centimeters.
Habitat and Occurrence
Eudistoma diaphanes prefers to inhabit shallow coastal waters, typically found in the intertidal zone or just below the surface. This species is a common sight on rocky shores, piers, and other hard substrates, where it attaches itself firmly to the surface using its base. It is often found in areas with moderate water flow and high levels of sunlight. Its preference for such habitats places it within the neritic zone, a marine environment spanning from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
Eudistoma diaphanes is classified as follows: Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Class: Ascidiacea Order: Aplousobranchia Family: Polycitoridae Genus: Eudistoma Species: Eudistoma diaphanes
Feeding
Eudistoma diaphanes is a filter feeder, meaning it obtains its nutrition by filtering small particles from the surrounding water. Water is drawn into the oral siphon and passed through a complex system of gill slits. As water passes through the slits, tiny food particles, such as phytoplankton and zooplankton, are trapped by a mucus net. The captured food particles are then transported to the digestive system for processing.
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